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Diabetes in Sport 2025-09-03
03 September 2025
Lead MP
Chris Bloore
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHS
Other Contributors: 10
At a Glance
Chris Bloore raised concerns about diabetes in sport 2025-09-03 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
It is a real privilege to speak on the vital topic of diabetes and sport. I thank Chris Bright and others for their support. Diabetes affects 12 million people in the UK, causing severe health issues. Physical activity helps combat these outcomes by improving insulin use and maintaining blood glucose levels within target ranges. Exercise can reduce insulin needs, maintain a healthy weight, improve blood pressure and cholesterol, and support mental health. The debate highlights stigma, exclusion, misunderstanding, and barriers to sport participation faced by people with diabetes. We need national sports bodies to show leadership in training coaches and volunteers, providing clear policies, and tackling stigma.
Sarah Bool
Con
South Northamptonshire
As a type 1 diabetic myself, I agree with the hon. Member that exercise is excellent for moderating blood sugar levels.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
I commend the hon. Member for bringing forward this debate and raising issues of diabetes and sport. I want to tell him about a young boy from back home who wants to inspire others despite his condition.
Wolverhampton North East
We need sporting bodies to prioritise awareness and education, tackle stigma, and ensure everyone can enjoy sport without unnecessary barriers.
Tom Collins
Lab
Worcester
Sport should manage diabetes at an elite level so that there is a real opportunity for people with diabetes to own the condition and their sports performance.
Smethwick
Sports organisations should focus on improving information and support for people from different ethnicities to ensure health inequalities are ironed out at every level.
Sarah Bool
Con
South Northamptonshire
Supported the lead MP's concerns about stigma affecting physical activity among people with diabetes.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Added his support for addressing barriers to physical activity for those with diabetes.
Karin Smyth
Lab
Wolverhampton North East
Emphasised the importance of including people with diabetes in sport and exercise activities.
Smethwick
Highlighted the need for better awareness and support to enable individuals with diabetes to participate safely in physical activity.
Josh Newbury
Lab
Cannock Chase
Suggested that social prescribing should be used to direct people with diabetes towards physical activities, ensuring they can benefit from these initiatives without feeling stigmatized.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the importance of addressing barriers faced by people with diabetes in participating in sport and physical activity. She highlighted that the Government's agenda is to shift from treatment to prevention through increased physical activity. The Department plans to invest £250 million in 100 places through Sport England, £400 million in local community sports facilities, and support new school sport partnerships to promote healthy behaviours early on. Examples of successful initiatives include the integration of health and leisure services in Essex and the use of social prescribing by NHS services. The Minister emphasised that national governing bodies are expected to have plans in place to support those with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, and mentioned ongoing research through Sport England and Diabetes UK to address barriers and opportunities for physical activity. She also offered to meet stakeholders including the lead MP to discuss further actions.
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House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.